Open Doors - North West, Summer 2012 by Open Doors Media Ltd

Open Doors – The Regional Training Prospectus

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North WEST edition

Issue 4 - Summer 2012

ISSN: 2046-6552

Issue 4 | North West Edition | Summer 2012

Apprenticeships · Careers · Jobs · Training · A-Levels · College · UNI

Get careers off to a great start. New BPP Apprenticeships. Apprenticeships with BPP are designed to accelerate careers and businesses, whilst equipping people with the real-world skills and knowledge to flourish from day one. We offer innovative and continuously updated curricula as well as flexibility on how, when and where to train to balance work responsibility with study. BPP Apprenticeships include: Accounting Business and Administration Customer Service Payroll Leading and Management Learn how BPP can accelerate you or your business towards an ideal training solution. Call: 0845 485 1770 (London & Croydon) 0845 485 1771 (rest of the UK) Visit: bpp.com/apprenticeships

YOUR AMBITION REALISED.

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Hello, we’re Open Doors... ... and this is our Regional Training Prospectus, here to help you decide what to do next. 2012 is an exciting Olympic year! But it’s doubly exciting for school leavers like you, as you take that next step towards your dream career. Whether you want to start earning qualifications and money with an Apprenticeship, get a taste of the working world with employer funded study, carry on learning at sixth form or college, or go to university, this Regional Training Prospectus will help you make the right decisions and choices. In this issue we will profile some of the biggest sectors in your region and explain how to take the first step to a career in the ones that interest you. We’ll also explore employment trends in your area and take a look at some remarkable true stories of young people who have had success after leaving school. There’s a lot to sort out before September so we’ll give you a guide to all of the confusing qualifications out there and will answer some of the most common questions or concerns you might have too.

The future is in your hands ... right here in this prospectus. So turn the page and let’s get started!

QR Codes

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S FIND UCEBOOK ON FA

A QR (Quick Response) Code is a smart way to head straight to interesting websites, lots of colleges and providers have one, and using them couldn’t be simpler. All you have to do is download a QR Code reader app for your smartphone. Then launch the app, hover your phone over the code, and your phone will take you straight to the website you need. Give it a try with Open Doo rs Media’s very own code now!

Throughout this Prospectus, you’ll see lots of facts and figures about our regio n and its sectors. We get them from the Offic e for National Statistics, various Sect or Skills Councils and industry experts. It’s all official stuff, there’s no Wikipedia where we’re invol ved!

Open Doors – Summer 2012 - North West edition Publisher – Karl Mason karl@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Design – Studio Belly Timber hello@studiobellytimber.co.uk

Editor – Stan Neal editor@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Distribution/Subscriptions distribution@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Business Development – Simon Bell simon@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

To contact us: 01765 694120 | info@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

ISSN: 2046-6552

All material is copyrighted both written and illustrated. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. All images and information is collated from extensive research and along with advertisements is published in good faith. Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at press time, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.

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COntents The perfect place to start, jump straight to any section that instantly appeals or keep turning the pages and continue reading – it’s all here to help you find your dream career

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Careers Insight

07 SCHOOL LEAVERS PROBLEM PAGE

17 Motor vehicle sector

Make sure you’re ready to leave school, take a look at some of the problems you might face

10 Qualifications table

21 Travel & hospitality sector

See how different qualifications add up, and how they compare

12 Life Stories

Past and present students tell us all about their experiences and how they succeeded

Love cars? There are lots of careers on offer

You could make a career of helping people enjoy themselves

25 Transport & logistics sector

A fleet of careers that keep our world moving forward

29 IT & telecoms sector

This cutting edge industry isn’t just for the geeks

33 Retail sector

This exciting industry is so much more than life behind a counter

37 Imagine a career... ctor vehicle se r to o M 7 1 p

We give you a heads-up on the other sectors out there, which we’ll cover in later issues

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Here’s how it w orks Eve

ry term we publish a new issue of Open Doors tha t covers five sectors in giving you a good idea detail, of what a career in these sectors would be like. Do sector you’re keen on isn n’t worry if the ’t one of the five – you can find a brief overview of in the ‘Imagine a career every sector ’ article or if you head to www.opendoorsmedia.c cover five different sector o.uk. We’ll s in detail in the next iss ue, so look out for us nex t term. If there is anything else you would like us to cover, or you just want to say hel email at editor@opendo lo, drop us an orsmedia.co.uk. We wa nt to make sure we cov you need to plan your futu er everything re! Happy reading, and hope you have a great ter m.

Useful Stuff 43 Spotlight on the north west All about your region

52 More helpful stuff

Useful links, contact details and more – because you can never have too much information

54 Free downloads

Want more top notch careers info? Get downloading with Open Doors

el & p21 Trav lity sector hospita

rt & p25 Transpo tor logistics sec

il sector p33 Reta

tor oms sec c e l e t & p29 IT

Want to earn while you learn? With our industry approved Apprenticeships you’ll work in a real job from day one, it’s a great way to start your career and the perfect stepping stone to getting ahead. And the best part? You’ll earn a wage and gain invaluable experience too.

The choice is yours… During your Apprenticeship you’ll receive training, within a work environment. All of our training is sector specific and will equip you with the right skills to get you where you want to be. You can get qualifications in areas such as: • Business Administration • Childcare • Customer Service

• Hairdressing and Barbering • Health and Social Care • Hospitality and Catering • Retail

The employment and skills group Take your first step towards a brighter future and call us now on 0333 444 3973, or text JOB to 80011 and we’ll give you a call back. You can also visit www.esggroup.co.uk

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School leaver problem page

Going into sixth form, college, an apprenticeship, university or the world of work? Leaving school is an exciting time but sometimes you might face big decisions or dilemmas along the way, take a look at our problem page to make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re prepared...

11,000+

500,000

275,000+

70%

Diplomas are achieved every year!

(number of apprenticeship starts in England each year)

800,000

There are more than university places in the UK each year

Around 70% of 16 year olds choose to remain in full time education

(number of school leavers and graduates who enter the job market each year)

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School leaver problem page

In our previous issues we covered some of the common questions you had about which options to take when you leave school and how to apply for them. Now you have a plan it’s time to consider some of the problems you may encounter and, more importantly, how to avoid them!

Key Dates You don’t want to miss any deadlines or important days. Here are some

important dates for your diary...

26th July 2012 – University offers must be replied to by this date. 16th August 2012 – A-Level results day. 23rd August 2012 – GCSE results day. 3rd September 2012 – New academic year. most education and training It’s also important check the key dates for whatever route you’re taking, s. Make sure you know deadline looming providers have easy to use websites and will warn you of any nt dates, you may enrolme different have colleges many , when you have to be available. For example enrol! and go actually you until have a place but that’s useless

School Leaver Check List Speak to your school careers adv isor – This seems obvious and by this poin t in the year it is likely that you have already spoken to your school advisor, but if even if you know exactly what you’ re doing it can’t hurt to get an expert opinion. Your careers advisors are there to help you and going along for a chat may raise issues you hadn’t even thought of. Consider all the available options – Again at this point you’ve probably explored a few different avenues, or have applied for your dream course, but a back-up plan is always useful. For example, if you don’t get the grades you need to get on your course, is there a diffe rent type of qualification you can do to get into the industry you want to? There may be other colleges or providers who offer the same course too and it’s fine to go to open days at different places even if you’ve already applied elsewhere. Think about money – ‘Money makes the world go round’ is a cheesy catchphrase - but it’s true. Money is a big issue no matter what route you take: if you’re doing an Apprenticeship, you get paid, but need to consider possible travelling expenses; if you’re doing a further education course the old EMA fund ing system no longer exists; if you’re goin g to university you will be in control of your own household budget! Many students get part-time or summer jobs to help fund their studies, could this be an option for you?

Useful Links Website for www.apprenticeships.org.uk – Apprenticeship vacancies. ut schools, www.ucasprogress.com – All abo iders. prov ing learn ed -bas colleges and work er education high and y ersit Univ uk .ac. www.ucas courses. The best careers www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk – site on the web.

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Dilemmas, concerns and problems...

Here are some of the issues students have with the most common school leaver routes. But if you do a bit of preparation and make use of the resources available there’s nothing to worry about!

UCAS and University Problem: You’re worried you won’t get the grades you expected and may have to go through clearing. Solution: Every year A Level results day is all over the news with the clearing process in complete pandemonium and gazillions of disappointed students. However in reality the process is really straightforward. If you’re unsuccessful with your first choice offer, but meet the conditions for your second choice, you will be accepted there. If you fail to meet the conditions for either choice you can get a place through Clearing. Even if you miss your required grades its worth checking if the institutions that offered you places will accept you anyway, especially if you’re just short of the mark. Going through Clearing allows you to look at all of the courses that still have places. You may use Clearing if you didn’t receive any offers, missed your grades or want to turn down the offers you have received. Through Clearing you can speak to as many universities and colleges you want, so you can decide what course you want to do, but you can only accept one course. Clearing is nothing to be scared of; thousands of students get places through the system every year! Alternatively you can always ask your teachers about repeating your A Levels or even getting them re-marked.

Part-time jobs

er or higher education, and Problem: You want to stay in furth re worried about money. you’ but up, have an ideal course lined available for further and Solution: There are funding options bursaries and scholarships; nt higher education through governme ify for these still have qual t don’ who however many students many students is a part-time money worries. A popular option for or a summer/temporary job. e your studies provide you Not only will part-time work alongsid too - many employers CV with money but it looks good on your rtant as education impo as be to e rienc consider workplace expe job sites out there with partand qualifications. There are lots of cash, so get your CV extra time roles for students who need orking or just taking a netw of bit a g doin ider online, but also cons are never actually jobs of CV round small local businesses. Lots nesses if they busi l loca g askin advertised, there’s no harm in t trade are always uran resta the like s strie indu need extra staff and looking for new people!

Apprenticeships Problem: You’ve heard all about Apprenticeships, and would like to do one so you can get paid and qualified, but you can’t find any vacancies. Solution: More and more young people are interested in Apprenticeships, and we gave you the info on how to apply for an Apprenticeship in our last issue. Obviously your first port of call should be www.apprenticeships.org.uk and the online vacancy matching service, which lists all of the available opportunities. You don’t have to leave your search there though, why not do some networking? Ask your friends, relatives, teachers and careers advisors, if they know any local employers or providers who can help you find an Apprenticeship. Alternatively if you have a part-time job you could always ask your current employer to take you on as an Apprentice! It sounds strange but lots of people who do Apprenticeships already have jobs, because of the benefits to the employee and the employer. You get qualified and your employer doesn’t have to pay anything for the training if you’re 18 or under.

A Levels and Sixth Form

Problem: You’re not sure you’ve mad e the right choices for your A-Levels, and you don’t know whether to stay at your schools sixth form or go elsew here. Solution: After getting your GCSE results, or just having a change of heart, you may want to do different A Levels from the ones you have previously chosen. Sometimes the best thing to do is allow time to adapt and get used to the course. However if you have the necessary GCSE grades you should be able to chan ge before term starts without any problems. Most schools and colleges don’t allow you to change after a certain point in the term, but if you really want to change the best thing to do is talk to your teachers. As mentioned in the college enrolmen t section it is common to have offers from more than one place. Hopefully you will have been to both college and sixth form open days so you should have a good idea of what both are like. It’s really a choice betw een the size and independence of a new college, or sixth form, or staying where you already know the teachers and have friends. There is no set answer about whic h is best, it really depends on what you think is best for your future.

College Enrolment

to go, or how to enrol. Problem: You’ve got places at several colleges but you’re not sure where you want to do it, you may have places at more than where or do, to want you course Solution: If you’ve been unsure about what ely normal and colleges understand that your situation may one college, or a place at sixth form and college available. This is complet the autumn term of year 11. Once you have decided which in course your for have changed since application, especially if you applied and inform them of your decision. course you want to do contact the college(s) you won’t be attending nt days at colleges can be hectic. Once you have been It’s really important that you enrol on your chosen course in time, as enrolme enrol and when enrolment is. Though each college is to need you what you telling offered a place most colleges will send you a letter t information and qualification documents, with you when you different you may need photo identification, references, loan/fee paymen contact if you are unsure about what you need and where can you go to enrol. Most colleges have phone hotlines or email addresses you need to go.

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Qualifications explained Did you know that completing an Advanced Apprenticeship is the same as getting an A level? There are lots of different qualifications â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how they compare. Remember that within any one level, qualifications can cover a wide mix of subjects, and take different amounts of time to complete. Entry Level

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

LEVEL 4-8

Entry Level Certificates

5 GCSEs (grades D-G)

5 GCSEs (grades A*-C)

A Levels

Foundation Degree

Skills for Life

BTEC Introductory Diplomas and Certificates

Intermediate Apprenticeship

Advanced Apprenticeship

Higher Apprenticeship

Functional Skills at entry level (English, maths and ICT)

OCR Nationals

BTEC First Diplomas and Certificates

BTEC Diplomas, Certificates and Awards

Diploma of Higher Education

Awards, Certificates, and Diplomas at entry level

NVQs at level 1

NVQs at level 2

NVQs at level 3

HND, HNC

Foundation Diploma

Higher Diploma

Advanced Diploma

GCE in applied subjects

These are our classrooms. Imagine what the leisure facilities look like. We offer a different way of learning that leads to great jobs with exciting prospects. COURSES AVAILABLE IN:n Adventure n Agriculture & Land Management n Animal Management & Vet Nursing n Countryside & the Environment

n Land-based Technology n Equine n Forestry & Arboriculture n Horticulture n Outdoor learning n Forensic Science

n Childcare n Health & Social Care n Skills for working life n Floristry

Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0AH T: 01768 893400 E: enquiries@newtonrigg.ac.uk www.newtonrigg.ac.uk

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Life Stories Karl looks forward to the challenges ahead Karl Fairhurst joined Hyde Clarendon Sixth Form College in September 2009. His potential shone through right from the beginning and, as predicted, in August 2011 he achieved A* grades in all his 4 A-level subjects, Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology . Karl has a brilliant scientific mind, able to disseminate the most complex of mathematical and scientific principles. He is highly focussed on achieving his goals, but at the same time can motivate and inspire people around him to reach their unrealised potential. He has good entrepreneurial ability and was a key member of the Science Department’s Young Enterprise Initiative, driving the project forward and producing a profitable outcome. Karl’s Chemistry teacher and personal tutor, David Bailey commented that “Karl is an individual with relaxed good humour and patience. He is able to empathise with his peers, realising their conceptual difficulties in learning, and has been a cornerstone of the Science Department’s peer mentoring initiative. Karl has a complete set of attributes which will enable him to go far in his future endeavours”. Karl is currently studying Chemical Engineering at Manchester University. He is looking forward to the challenges that this course will present and his ambition is to continue on to postgraduate study. It is beyond doubt that he has the intellectual ability and motivation to achieve this and will have a successful career in academia or industry. For more information call 0161 908 6800 or visit www.hydeclarendon.ac.uk

Ian aims high Once a gang member at a very young age, Ian Perkins 21, knows only too well the tragedy of taking the wrong path in life and losing friends due to crime and unrest. Looking for his second chance in life and to prove wrong those people who once doubted him, Ian’s determination and will to succeed led him to Lifetime. Enrolling into the Lifetime Fitness Academy and with the support of tutor Mark Pemberton, Ian successfully completed his Level 2 Fitness Instructor Apprenticeship; not only could Ian earn while he learned, but he was able to gain ‘on the job’ skills and a true understanding of the industry. Ian says: “I have turned my life around, influenced people and shown never to give up on anyone. In the space of just 20 months I have come from “just an apprentice” to becoming the youngest ever Health and Fitness Manager of the largest Fitness First club in Europe. I have received two awards from my employer on consecutive months, which has never been achieved by anyone in the company. I always aimed high from the very start and never gave up on that goal.” A bright future awaits Ian; he now teaches ‘PT Business’ courses and has worked hard to establish himself in the fitness industry. “Eventually I want to have a say in how the industry is run. I feel that my passion behind health and fitness can influence change; my ambition is to aim high!” For more information please get in touch T: 0870 120 1207 W: www.lifetimetraining.co.uk/looking-for-a-job E: fitness@lifetimetraining.co.uk

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Get careers off to a great start Jill Wright, Director at Kirk Newsholme, an accountancy, taxation and business advisory practice based in Leeds which this year took on two AAT apprentices, says ‘We have benefited from the Apprenticeship route because in the current climate many very bright and capable students have taken the decision to train in a work environment’. The two apprentices, Katie and Jamie, both left college with A-levels. Katie says ‘I took the apprenticeship route because I felt it had much more to offer than going to University. It works perfectly for me as it provides a good balance between work life and learning.’ They are progressing well through their apprenticeship, attending the BPP centre in Leeds for one day per week. The other days are spent in the office or out at clients’ premises and are supported by senior members of staff, developing their technical skills, background knowledge and personal effectiveness. Jamie was considering going to University to become an accountant but after being offered the job at Kirk Newsholme, decided to start the apprenticeship. Jamie says, ‘The apprenticeship entailed fully paid study as well as a full time job, so not only would I be getting free education and job experience, I was going to earn money. As I aspired to be an accountant my business sense kicked in! My college experience at BPP has been superb with knowledgeable, supporting tutors easing me through the lectures’. Visit bpp.com/apprenticeships Or call London & Croydon: 0845 485 1770, rest of the UK: 0845 485 1771

SISTERS MIMI AND PATTY AGREE THAT VOCATIONAL TRAINING IS JUST THEIR CUPPA AT COSTA COFFEE Sisters Mimi and Patricia Dlugosova have done their employer Costa Coffee proud after taking vocational training courses in their stride. Mimi, 25, and Patty, 24, both started working at the world’s leading high street café two years ago Sister act: Slovakian sisters Mimi (left) and after arriving in York Patricia Dlugosova have gone from strength to strength since completing vocational from Slovakia. They training at Costa Coffee with Intrain ing. were then given the opportunity to gain extra qualifications with national training provider Intraining, and have not looked back since. They enjoyed studying so much, they have each signed up for an additional course and both have gone on to be promoted, with Mimi hoping to manage her own branch. Alicia O’Neil, who manages the Costa Coffee branch on Market Street in York, where the sisters work, said: “Mimi and Patty have done extremely well on their courses with Intraining, but more than that, they have really enjoyed them. They are great members of the team and I cannot praise them highly enough.” The sisters have both successfully completed an NVQ Level 2 in Teamleading, which included key skills in English and Maths, and are about to embark on a Level 3 NVQ in Customer Service. Mimi, who lives in York, said: “We love working at Costa Coffee and were very grateful to have the opportunity to learn new skills and gain new qualifications. “Our training course has taught us skills in leading and managing people and has given us confidence in our day-to-day roles. Everything we have done has been very relevant, so we are both looking forward to the next course.” For more information about Intraining call our contact centre on 0330 123 1300 or visit www.intraining.co.uk.

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Life Stories A Secure Investment for James James Newlove always knew he wanted to enter a world of electrical engineering, so when a representative from Stegta visited his school to tell him about the opportunities available to him as an Apprentice, James jumped at the chance. James, 33 from Kearsley, began working as an Apprentice for a local security installation company where he learned from industry experts about how to install and service alarm systems. James quickly rose through the ranks from an Apprentice to an Engineer, Senior Service Engineer, before becoming the service department manager of Mono Alarms. As a Manager of Mono Alarms who employs around 70 people with over 10,000 contract customers operating from some 50,000 systems installed across the North West, they also currently employ 4 Apprentices. As a former Apprentice himself, James understands the benefits Apprentices can bring to a business. James comments, “By employing young Apprentices, we have been able to embed our corporate values from the start, ironing out any bad habits, which more experienced engineers may have developed, straight away. So far we have had nine Apprentices on the company books, all of whom have gained hands-on experience, and have become valuable assets to the company.” By working with Stegta , Mono Alarms have received the support needed when employing Apprentices, along with delivering bespoke training programmes to meet their business objectives. James comments, “The support we have received has been fantastic, arranging all the assessment and course details, and ensuring that all our Apprentices keep meeting national standards. The young people who we have employed as Apprentices through Stegta have been incredibly motivated and keen to learn the trade – which as any employer will tell you, is essential in maintaining a healthy and competitive business.” For more information, Log onto http://WWW.STEGTA.CO.UK

Pride of Tameside Apprentice of the Year, Nathan Burke Nathan Burke started at Tameside College on a Pre - Apprenticeship course in September 2010. He has since completed IMI Awards Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair and a National Vocational Qualification both at Level 2. He is currently studying on an Advanced Apprenticeship Level 3 in Motor Vehicle. Following a successful period of assessment from the owner of the garage a full- time Apprenticeship was offered at Marlborough Motors, Ashton-under –Lyne, Tameside. Nathan has now worked at Marlborough Motors for the past 9 months. His employer has reported back to the college that he is a very conscientious, punctual and hard working young man making a very positive contribution to the running and success of the company. Nathan’s employer Alan Pickering said “we have trained a lot of lads over the years and Nathan is by far the best candidate we have ever had. We can see the potential in Nathan. We are surprised sometimes that Nathan cannot complete a job as we forget that he is still in training”. In addition Nathan was awarded the Pride of Tameside – Apprentice of the Year, for his hard work and commitment to study. He has shone in the terms of gaining new skills but also in the way in which he has applied himself to the world of work. For further information about Apprenticeships contact Tameside College Apprenticeship Department, 0161 908 6608 or visit www.tamesidecollege.ac.uk

Tameside College

Are you thinking about your future? Take the first step on the ladder to an exciting career with real opportunities If you are the kind of person that likes to learn through practical experience, then an apprenticeship with Mantra Learning could give you the headstart you are looking for. You will gain valuable qualifications that are respected by employers and you will earn a real wage, doing a real job at the same time! Mantra recruits and trains apprentices for the logistics and automotive sectors covering a wide range of roles from HGV driving to working as a mechanic in a garage or serving customers in a car dealership parts centre. We have excellent links with local employers who are constantly looking for enthusiastic young people to work in shop floor, customer service and administrative positions.

Pathway to Apprenticeship Course If you would like to become an apprentice, then a six-week Pathway to Apprenticeship course with Mantra Learning is the perfect place to start. You will gain some extra qualifications and learn some real skills that you will be able to use from day one of your apprenticeship. The skills you learn will make you an ideal candidate for potential employers – giving you a better chance of getting that apprenticeship you’re after.

■ Develop your skills, knowledge and experience – giving you a head start in the jobs market ■ Gain valuable qualifications up to A Level standard ■ Earn a real wage while you learn ■ No student loans Ben Morris started his apprenticeship with Bury Road Garage after leaving school without any qualifications. He has always been passionate about cars and was keen to learn a trade in the automotive industry. His lack of academic achievement at school was soon overcome when he started to learn practical skills in a subject he loves. Three years on and Ben is a fully qualified mechanic and is keen to further his career by taking an MOT testing course.

For an application form call us now on:

0800 389 5283 www.mantralearning.co.uk

apprenticeships@mantralearning.co.uk

enabling people to transform business

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Careers Insight

Motor Vehicle Sector There are around 570,000 people working in this sector in the UK

ÂŁ20,000 per year

(potential earnings of vehicle repair technicians)

There are over 200,000 employees in vehicle sales

50,000 The UK is home to 8 Formula One teams, employing 50,000 people

Why not consider a career working in the motor vehicle industry?

Automotive manufacturing contributes ÂŁ6.5 billion to the UK economy

There are 70,000 firms in this sector in the UK, of these: 14,000+ are in Vehicle Sales 39,000+ are in Light Vehicle Maintenance 9,000+ are in Parts Distribution 17

Careers Insight

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Motor Vehicles There are 32 million vehicles on the UK’s roads, and all of them need to be serviced, repaired, bought and sold. That’s where the motor vehicle industry comes in… The motor vehicle sector deals with all aspects of cars, vans and motorcycles – selling them, fixing them, servicing them and even rescuing stranded drivers. There are lots of career paths on offer, from technical to customer-service based roles – it all depends on what interests you. The good news about this sector is that vocational training is the best way to get into it, though academic routes, such as engineering degrees are a possibility. Here are the main areas within the motor vehicle sector – there are vocational routes into all of them.

Maintenance and repair

One of the most popular areas, maintenance and repair is about keeping cars roadworthy. These technicians service, fix and replace parts of all sorts of vehicles. They can work in independent garages or as part of dealerships, say working on just BMWs. Some technicians specialise in things like electrics or motorcycles. Starting salary: ranging between £13,000 and £20,000 a year.

Body and paint

Body and paint technicians fix cars that have been damaged in accidents. Body work can be sorting out rust or dents and scratches and paint work is about sprucing up after to make everything look like new again. You need a good eye for detail and an understanding of vehicle bodywork in these roles. Starting salary: ranging between £13,500 and £18,000 a year.

Roadside assistance

When someone’s car breaks down on the side of the road, it’s the roadside recovery technician who comes to the rescue. They either fix the car onsite or safely tow it back to a garage and need a high level of technical ability. Workers in this role may also need to available for on-call services. Starting salary: ranging between £13,000 and £16,000 a year.

Fitting

Motor vehicle fitters repair and replace parts on cars, like tyres, batteries, brakes and exhausts while the customers wait. Workers in this role will also need to advise customers on simple maintenance issues. They can work in fast-fit centres, dealerships or alongside motor vehicle technicians. Starting salary: ranging between £12,000 and £15,000 a year.

Parts operations

This area is about selling car parts to the public – dealerships, motor vehicle technicians and everyday customers. It’s a customer-service based role that requires good organisation to process payments, manage inventory, advise customers, and more. Starting salary: ranging between £9,000 and £14,500 a year.

Sales

This is about selling cars, which involves broad knowledge of cars and negotiation skills. It’s also about understanding people – sales people need to find the car that’s right for the customer, and have the confidence to seal the deal. Starting salary: ranging between £10,000 and £15,000 a year, plus commission.

NORTH West Focus The North West is one of the big centres for the motor vehicle sector, particularly for the retail of motor vehicles; only the South East exceeds the North West in this sector. There are various different roles within the sector that you can get involved with; these include vehicle sale, roadside assistance, vehicle repair, body building, vehicle rental and parts distribution and supply. Sales, light vehicle maintenance and parts distribution and supply have the highest number of employers here.

Fast facts:

• 14% of the nation’s motor vehicle retail employees are in the North West. • Second biggest centre for retail of motor vehicles. • Nearly 60,000 people work in this sector here. • The most common sub-sectors are vehicle sales, light vehicle maintenance and parts distribution and supply. • There are over 8,000 workplaces in the region.

Start learning!

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Get Qualified There are plenty of vocational courses in this sector...

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are the recommended route into this sector. You’ll get a job with an employer and do half of your learning on the job, and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2: • Roadside Assistance and Recovery • Vehicle Body and Paint Operations • Vehicle Fitting • Vehicle Maintenance and Repair • Vehicle Parts Operations • Vehicle Sales.

Advanced Apprenticeships

Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Historically Advanced Apprentices have progressed significantly in the industry and many have gone on to become supervisors or managers, because of the hand-on practical nature of the sector this is a good route to take. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3: • Roadside Assistance and Recovery • Vehicle Body and Paint Operations • Vehicle Fitting • Vehicle Maintenance and Repair • Vehicle Parts Operations • Vehicle Sales.

A Levels

A Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below, but which ones are right for you depend on what role you want to do. Most people take the vocational routes into the motor industry, but you could do the more practical Foundation Degree after A Levels or study something like mechanical engineering at university.

Michael’s Dream Job Michael McCarter, 18, has always wanted to work in a garage and landed his dream job straight from school when he was just 16 years old. Taking fate into his own hands, Michael called into Tony Blundell’s Garage and asked if they would take him on as an apprentice. “Tony agreed to give me a one week trial where I was able to prove myself and then I got the job” explains Michael. “I had to call the College to arrange the course but that was easy enough. “My Apprenticeship has been a really good experience. I love working with my hands and doing all the practical stuff. I’d say to anyone thinking of an Apprenticeship to give it a go. I’m doing what I always wanted to do.” For Tony Blundell, having apprentices is normal practice: “I’ve taken about eight apprentices from Blackpool and The Fylde College and a few of them still work here full time. “I think Apprenticeships are a good stepping stone for young people and something businesses need to move forward. They bring their own expertise, for example they’re more tuned in with technology. Working with the College is great too as they keep me informed with any new policies.” For more information about Apprenticeships with Blackpool and The Fylde College, call 01253 504030, email business@blackpool.ac.uk or visit www. blackpool.ac.uk/apprenticeships

Foundation Degrees

A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical hands-on experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment. They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an honours degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from Honours Degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college. They are available in a range of subjects, from motor vehicle performance to mechanical engineering, and are a good way to get qualified and gain experience.

Vocational Qualifications

Vocational qualifications offer a more practical learning programme, which relates directly to specific job roles or sectors. There are loads of different types but here are some key ones to look out for: • NVQs • BTECs • Diplomas. (These are available at multiple levels, you can see where they rank on our qualifications table on page 10) Many of your local colleges and training providers offer vocational qualifications in this sector. To see who offers them in your region check out www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk and take a look at some of our online profiles.

inks Usefr.ourg.lukl tor Industry is the - The Institute of the Mo

www.moto Sector Skills Council. Institute of the - Careers site from the www.autocity.org.uk Motor Industry. cialising in motor tional training provider spe www.remit.co.uk - Na vehicle apprenticeships. web. k - Careers films on the www.careersbox.co.u s resource. eer car ia.co.uk - Our online www.opendoorsmed

Apprenticeship Training Lancaster & Morecambe College

Due to popular demand and the success of our existing Apprenticeship programmes Lancaster & Morecambe College have added NEW subject areas including: • Property Sales & Management • Sales • Equine Studies • Data Cabling and Telecommunications Zoe Taylor Works at Lou-b-Lou as a full time stylist Completed Level 2 and 3 hairdressing apprenticeship What is your job role? I have my own clients who I see on a regular basis. I help manage the Salon when my boss is off and supervise our trainee hairdresser. What is your favourite thing about your job? Making people happy! I really enjoy working on the weddings as well. What were the best bits about the apprenticeship? I really enjoyed coming into college

• • • • •

Creative Media Business & Finance Administration Bar Management Beauty General Maintenance – Construction • Teaching Assistant • Information Technology Qualification • Business Improvement Techniques

and learning new and different techniques, I learnt a lot on the job but then when I came into college they showed us different ways of cutting hair so I could bring this information back and share it with my colleagues. What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the course? It’s hard work and you have to be really committed to Hairdressing as a career, if it is what you want to do then go for it, it’s 100% worth it!

Make Apprenticeships Work for YOU Call 01524 521413 or e-mail business@lmc.ac.uk

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Travel & Hospitality Sector 4.9% of the UK’s economic output comes from this sector

More than half of the people in this sector are aged between 16 and 28

47% of the sector workforce is part-time

£22,000

per year (average travel agent salary)

638,000 270,000

additional staff are needed in the sector by 2017

(people are employed as chefs in the UK)

Which areas employ most people in this sector? (% of overall sector employment) Restaurants – 30.5% Pubs, bars and nightclubs – 16.1% Hotels – 12.1% Hospitality Services – 17.6% So why not get into one of the UK’s largest, most popular (and fun) sectors?

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Travel & hospitality Fancy a career where you help people enjoy themselves, with opportunities to travel in the UK and abroad? Then look no further than the travel and hospitality sector… This is one of the most popular sectors. In our country alone, it employs nearly 2.1 million people and covers a range of industries from restaurants and hotels to tour operators and nightclubs. People working in this industry arrange our holidays, cook for us in restaurants, serve drinks at the bar, lead our tours, and more. It’s a buzzing, exciting sector with many opportunities to work in the UK and abroad. In fact, businesses in this industry take on close to 15,000 new apprentices each year. Here are some of the major areas in travel & hospitality:

Travel services

These are the travel agents and tour operators who help people book their holidays. They work in both call centres and high street travel agencies (like Thomas Cook, STA Travel), advising people on anything from flight schedules and tour packages to travel insurance and visa information. Good customer service is an essential part of this career. Starting salary: ranging between £11,000 and £14,000 a year.

Catering

This is all about professional cooking – for restaurants, takeaways, canteens, pubs, cafes and anywhere else that boasts a menu. It’s an industry that rewards hard work and ambition. As you can imagine the types of cooking you could be doing vary massively depending on where you work, but many chefs who get into the industry with little or no qualifications can be very successful. After all, Jamie Oliver started out as a cooking apprentice. Starting salary: ranging between £10,000 and £13,000 a year.

Air cabin crew

Fancy a career up in the air? These are the people who make sure we’re comfortable and safe during flights. The perks are lots of free travel and a career that’s always on the go. Good customer service, as well as a friendly and reassuring personality are vital in this career; air cabin crew have to ensure travellers are comfortable and be trained in passenger safety. Starting salary: ranging between £14,000 and £16,000 a year.

Bars & wait staff

We Brits love to go out. This is the perfect industry for people who like to get out there and mingle. Bar and wait staff work ‘front of house’ in restaurants, pubs and nightclubs and serve customers. It’s all about good customer service…and the tips of course! Employers are always looking for outgoing young people to fill these job roles - bar and wait staff are the youngest in average age in the entire industry. Starting salary: ranging between £9,000 and £12,000 a year (plus tips).

Hotels & resorts

It takes a lot of people to run a successful hotel – the receptionists who check in guests, the housekeeper who keeps the sheets crisp, the reservations assistant who makes bookings, the porter who ferries luggage to the room. This industry covers work in hostels, caravan parks and holiday parks too. Service with a smile is key to hotel work as customers expect excellent service and attention from hotel staff. Starting salary: ranging between £10,000 and £13,000 a year.

North WEST Focus s The North West has various attraction ict Distr Lake the across the region, from ch to the Lowry, Blackpool Pleasure Bea need es plac e Thes . Zoo ster to Che employees, and in this region, the gory. majority of them are in your age cate be to cted expe are jobs e Thousands mor you g givin s, year ing com the in ted crea plenty of opportunities.

Fast facts:

es in • There are nearly 21,000 workplac this sector here. • 69% of these workplaces are s. restaurants or bars, clubs & nightclub in ers work t • The majority of North Wes this sector are under 25. or. • 222,000 people work in this sect

Start learning!

t? Want to find a course in the North Wes to how out find to 52 page to turn Then It will access your local 14-19 prospectus. your in se cour t wha tell you who’s offering visit d coul you local area, or www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

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Get qualified!

Case Study

There are plenty of vocational courses for this sector...

Rachel Groundwater

Apprenticeships

Current role: Cabin Crew, Jet2.com Studied: Preparation for Air Cabin Crew

Apprenticeships are the recommended route into this sector. (It’s how Jamie Oliver started.) You’ll get a job with an employer and do half of your learning on the job, and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. There are Apprenticeships ranging from catering to air cabin crew. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2: • Cabin Crew • Cleaning and Support Services • Hospitality and Catering • Travel Services.

Advanced Apprenticeships

Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Advanced Apprenticeships help you become more qualified whilst gaining employment experience. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3: • Hospitality and Catering • Travel Services.

A Levels

A Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below. Most employers and universities will value subjects that demonstrate you have solid base level knowledge and would be able to develop skills relevant to the industry. Here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction: • Food Technology • Travel and Tourism.

Foundation Degrees

Foundation Degrees combine’ academic study with practical hands-on experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment.

Rachel Groundwater, former student at Lancaster and Morecambe College, has successfully gained a job as Cabin Crew with Jet 2.com flying out of Edinburgh. Rachel’s role will consists in deleivering excellent customer to passengers on all Jet2.com flights to Europe. She will also have the opportunity to visit many of the countries she flies to! Rachel went to schools in Barrow in Furness and used the free bus service to get to and from college. Knowing she wanted to become Cabin Crew, she completed the First Diploma in Travel & Tourism to gain experience and understanding of the holiday industry, and then progressed on to the Preparation for Air Cabin Crew course. Rachel says her favourite part of the course was ‘the role plays in the classroom and the aviation training we did with Thomas Cook.’ Rachel’s tutor, Amanda Relihan, says ‘I’m very proud of Rachel’s achievements. She has been a pleasure to teach over the last two years and it has been great to see her develop and mature. Rachel should be really proud of what she has achieved and it’s all down to her hard work, though, because of her positive attitude I always knew she would do well and succeed.’ To find out more about the wide range of courses available at Lancaster and Morecambe College visit www.lmc.ac.uk or call contact us on 0800 306 306 / info@lmc.ac.uk

They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from Honours Degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college. You can do a Foundation Degree in hospitality and tourism management.

Vocational Qualifications

links the Sector Skills Usefpleu1sl t.co.uk – People 1st are

www.peo rism. Council for travel and tou lls and is a guide for careers, ski SP UK www.uksp.co.uk – training in this sector. web k - Careers films on the www.careersbox.co.u s resource eer ia.co.uk - Our online car www.opendoorsmed

Search ‘Take Off in Aerospace’

@takeoffnw

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Transport & Logistics Sector

700,000 (number of people employed in transport sector in the UK)

748,000 new employees will be needed in the logistics sector by 2017

ÂŁ25,000 per year (average salary of HGV drivers in the UK)

22,000

(number of employees in the transport sector in the UK)

Railway operations employ around 120,000 people

This is an important sector with lots of opportunities for all!

15%

(percentage of transport employers who have vacancies)

90,000 (people employed in the aviation industry) 25

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Transport & logistics It’s all about movement – passengers travelling from A to B, goods being transported across the country, letters being sent across town, imports arriving in our ports from other countries…it’s truly a fast-moving industry! This diverse sector deals with the efficient movement of people and goods. It can be broken down into two major areas: ‘transport’, which covers the people moving side of things like buses, trains, taxis, aeroplanes and the Underground – and ‘logistics,’ which covers the movement of goods and products across the country and abroad. The UK transport industry is absolutely huge – it employs over 560,000 people across the different subsectors. Our logistics industry is worth £14.5 billion and employs around 2.3 million people in over 195,000 companies. Both transport and logistics industries require skilled mechanics to keep the vehicles running, drivers to operate the vehicles safely, and organised people behind the scenes keeping the whole operation running to schedule. Here are some of the main areas within this sector:

Rail transport operations

It’s no simple feat to keep our railway network running to schedule – we need people to drive the trains, take fares, assist customers, operate the signals and more. You could work for the Underground or above ground. With new high speed rail systems being proposed by government there will be more opportunities in this area in the future. Starting salary: Around £13,000 a year.

Airports

It takes more than pilots to keep plane passengers safe – air traffic controllers help planes land safely and baggage handlers make sure luggage reaches the right destination. This sector is continually growing, with more and more flights every year. There are also lots of customer service roles throughout airports. Starting salary: ranging between £14,000 and £17,000 a year.

Engineering and maintenance

Transport and logistics rely heavily on vehicles – trains, buses, aeroplanes, vans, cars and motorcycles – so the sector needs people with the skills to keep them running. You could learn how to service sections of rail or fix lorries, depending on your interests. Maintenance specialists are also vital to our railways and motorways. Starting salary: ranging between £16,000 and £19,000 a year.

Mail services

This deals with the collection, processing and delivery of mail and packages. The Royal Mail is the largest employer, but there are lots of other specialist mail providers like FedEx who have grown with the popularity of internet shopping. You could sort in a processing centre or be out and about, making deliveries. Starting salary: ranging between £12,500 and £17,000 a year.

Driving & carrying goods

This covers the transport and delivery of goods by both light vehicles (like motorcycles and van) and large goods vehicles (like lorries). Large goods vehicle driving requires a special type of driving license. There are over 300,000 HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers in the UK. Starting salary: ranging between £10,500 and £12,500 a year.

Warehouse & storage

An essential part of transport and logistics, this area deals with the movement and storage of goods. It involves more than just lifting and moving things around – it takes organisation skills to manage inventory and specialist skills to operate forklifts and other machinery. Many roles in warehouse & storage are admin or management roles. Starting salary: Around £13,000 a year.

NORTH WEST focus Combining new jobs and those that need replacement employees, for example after retirement, there is an expected 96,000 jobs to fill by 2017, like the sound of those odds? There are a variety of roles to suit different people including supply chain management, cargo handling, warehouse and storage and various modes of transport like road, sea and rail. The most common job role here is in goods handling and storage, like the people who operate warehouses, over 41,000 people work in these roles.

Fast facts:

• Over 193,000 people are employed in this sector here; this accounts for 6% of the region’s workers. • 36,000 of these people drive Large Goods Vehicles for a living in our region. • 13% of logistics companies have vacancies here. • 34% of the North West’s logistics employees work in the wholesale sub-sector.

Start learning!

Want to find a course in the North West? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what course in your local area, or you could visit www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

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Get qualified! There are plenty of vocational routes into this sector...

Case Study

Apprenticeships

Partnership programme is a great success for Paul

Apprenticeships are the recommended route into this sector. You’ll get a job with an employer and do half of your learning on the job, and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2: • Aviation Operations on the Ground • Cabin Crew • Driving Goods Vehicles • Mail Services • Passenger Carrying Vehicles Driving – Bus and Coach • Purchasing and Supply Management • Rail Transport Engineering • Rail Services • Traffic Office • Transport Engineering & Maintenance • Warehouse and Storage.

Advanced Apprenticeships

System Training is working in partnership with Eddie Stobart to deliver apprenticeship training at their Training Academy in Widnes. Paul Withe, from Liverpool, began his apprenticeship to become an Eddie Stobart driver after successfully making it through the assessment process. Paul stood out as a likeable character from day one, “‘I was so nervous coming in to this, you just don’t know what to expect. The trainers have been incredible; they really understand what we are going through. They helped me believe that I could actually do this.” Trainer, Dave Wardle said: “Hearing back from his mentors on the road, he’s been doing a great job. I couldn’t be happier for Paul.”

A Levels

As part of his apprenticeship, Paul will receive a Level 2 Certificate in Driving Good Vehicles QCF and his articulated lorry driving licence. Paul is a great example of exactly why the partnership programme was set up. Not only has Paul received quality training, but he’s been given a life-changing opportunity.

Foundation Degrees

Eddie Stobart is currently recruiting for their next intake of apprentices at Widnes. For more information on this fantastic opportunity and other apprenticeship programmes available with System Training, including motor vehicle, warehouse and storage and accountancy call 0845 609 9003 or visit www.system-training.com

You can also do a Higher Apprenticeship, NVQ level 4 in: • Purchasing and Supply Management. A Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below. As many of the skills needed in the industry there aren’t specific A Levels that are the key to the sector. However if you’re interested in management aspects here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction: • Business Studies • Economics. A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical hands-on experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment. They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from Honours Degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college. They are available in some interesting subjects, such as air transport management.

Vocational Qualifications

Useful links .uk – All about careers in Logistics. www.deliveringyourfuture.co www.goskills.org – The Sector Skills Council for Transport. www.skillsforlogistics.org – The Sector Skills Council for Logistics. www.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web. www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource.

24/7 anywhere travel to many destinations! For all students and apprentices aged I6-I8! *Offer available to all full-time 16-18 students and 16-18 apprentices starting in September 2012.

Courses available: Blackburn College are proud to offer Entry Level to Level 3 and A Level qualifications and recognise how these courses really do enhance life and work opportunities. Business Studies, Business & Law

Media

Care, Health, & Childhood Studies

Motor Vehicle

Catering & Hospitality

Music & Performance

Computing

Public Services

Construction

Science

Creative Arts

Sport

Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy

Travel & Tourism

apply now

0I254 29 29 29 | blackburn.ac.uk/I6 -I8finance

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IT & TELECOMS SECTOR

826,700

Employees in IT & Telecoms sector in the UK

673,900

IT & Telecoms employees working in other sectors in the UK

22 million

Senior web designers can expect to earn up to £43,000 per year!

UK employees use IT in their daily work

92% Of job vacancies require basic IT skills!

Over half a million new IT & Telecoms professionals are needed in the next 5 years!

The internet is worth an extra £100 billion to the UK economy

Join one of the fastest moving industries out there!

£38,500 per year (Average

salary for full-time IT professionals)

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IT & Telecoms From mobile phones and satellite TV to broadband and fibre optics, IT & Telecoms is for anyone who wants to work with cutting-edge technology. IT & Telecoms are a major part of life – it helps us keep in touch with our friends, stay entertained, conduct business and more. This sector is all about digital technologies and it’s a fast moving area with excellent prospects, whether you’ve got a technical brain or a way with people. This sector can be broken down into two main areas:

Telecoms

Skilled IT professionals are always in demand. There’s a wide range of career paths on offer and many of them are technical – however, lots of IT jobs involve working with other people in a team. Here are some of the careers in IT:

It’s a growing sector with lots of different career paths. You could be installing fibre optic broadband cables, selling contracts in a call centre or assisting customers in a mobile phone shop. Apprenticeships are a recognised way of progressing through this industry.

IT trainer – These people make courses to teach clients how to use computers and different applications. They train people of all abilities and backgrounds and will generally specialise in a particular area, which could be anything from technical training to general use of applications like MS Office. Starting salary: starting around £18,000.

Telecoms technician – The people who install, test and repair telecommunication systems like telephone and broadband cabling. This can range from installing home satellite systems to working on communications for large companies and corporations. Starting salary: ranging between £12,000 and £15,000.

Web designer – These designers use a mixture of technical and creative skills to build websites that look good, function well and are user-friendly. Many web designers work independently but those working in companies may be in a team with programmers and other specialists. Starting salary: ranging between £16,000 and £20,000.

Customer service – The people who assist contract holders and users with any enquires, from billing to technical problems. Similarly to helpdesk assistants communication skills are required in order to help people. Starting salary: ranging between£14,000 and £16,000.

Software developer – These people design computer programmes and applications that help businesses work more effectively, such as bookkeeping software. Working on anything from these business applications to games these roles are highly complex and technical. Starting salary: ranging between £20,000 and £26,000.

north west Focus

As you can imagine, almost every organisation and business out there uses computers as part of their daily operations. In the UK, 21 million people use IT at work every day! From hospitals and power stations to charities and banks, IT is found in all parts of life. The IT industry is all about computers and information systems – designing them, developing them, making them, selling them and installing them.

Helpdesk assistant – Offering support to IT users with technical difficulties. This role requires good communication skills and the ability to explain problems clearly, as well as technical knowledge. Starting salary: ranging between £14,000 and £17,000.

Telecoms is a broad term for any technology that transmits information, like phone lines, broadband, TV, mobile phones and satellites. This industry includes internet suppliers, mobile phone companies and the big companies like BT and SKY who offer a wide range of services (phone + broadband + satellite TV) in one package.

The IT and telecoms sec tor isn’t just a sector on its own, IT is used in most job roles in som e way. It is beneficial to have IT skills as they are required for a lot of different jobs in various sectors. The good news is that the numbe r of employees in this sec tor is expected to grow by 7 times the reg ion’s average, with an est imated 49,000 IT professionals needed in the next 5 years.

Fast facts

• 1 in 20 North West em ployees work in this sec tor. • Over 2 million North West workers use IT in their everyday job. • 92% of job vacancies advertised here require candidates with IT user skills.

Start learning!

Want a course in the No rth West? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your loc al 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what course in your local area, or you cou ld visit www.opendoorsmed ia.co.uk

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Get qualified!

There are plenty of vocational and academic routes into this sector...

Apprenticeships

If you’re aged 16 or over, you could take an Apprenticeship in IT services & development, telecoms, or IT user. You’ll do half of your learning on the job and half in the classroom with a college or training provider, picking up qualifications along the way. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, both of these are NVQ level 2: • IT and Telecoms Professionals • IT User.

Advanced Apprenticeships

A Levels

A Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below. In this industry demonstrating that you’re handy with computers is an obvious advantage; however technical roles may require other skills too. Here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction: • Computing • Design & Technology – Systems and Control • ICT.

Foundation Degrees

You can also do a Foundation Degree in Information Technology. A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical hands-on experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment. They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from honours degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college.

Case study Andrew bucks the national trend A Blackburn apprentice has bucked the national trend by landing an extended contract with his firm. Young apprentice Andrew North continues to impress his employers at Capita as one of Blackburn College’s first ever I.T. apprentices. Prior to Blackburn College Andrew, 20, made an impact on the company after completing a work placement with them through the Entry to Employment scheme at Training 2000. After embracing the Apprenticeship, Andrew completed it within a year and has now moved on to his Level 3, bagging an extended contract. He says: “I have really enjoyed the I.T. Apprenticeship and look forward to learning new skills as I progress. “I choose I.T as it is increasingly important in businesses and can be applied across a range of sectors. “The tutors at Blackburn College has been really supportive throughout. “I spent a lot of time studying new software which if great and I’m happy that my contract has been extended and really hope to stay with Capita after I complete this Apprenticeship.” Manager Steve Heyes says: “Capita chose Blackburn College as it was the only provider offering a specific I.T. apprenticeship. “I.T. really is one of the most important skills to have, without it businesses would not be able to function. “We are really pleased with Andrew especially as he impressively completed the qualification within a year and we have extended his contract so he can now progress onto the Advanced Level 3 Apprenticeship. For more information Call: 01254 292929 Visit: www.blackburn.ac.uk Email: thehub@blackburn.ac.uk

Vocational Qualifications

Useful links Skills Council for this industry.

www.e-skills.com - The Sector www.microsoft.com/uk - Microsoft UK. IA). www.comptia.org - Computer Technology Industry Association (CompT n. Ambitio Big k ion.co.u igambit www.b www.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web. www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource.

didn’t want “I was positive I y but wanted to go to universit er in the to pursue a care Enrolling on business world. ip was the best an Apprenticesh e to reach this way to enable m goal!”,

Natalie Poole

We are one of the UK’s leading providers of BTEC Apprenticeships helping thousands of young people every year achieve nationallyrecognised qualifications...all whilst earning a wage!

ip h s e ntic ies e r p t i Ap n u t r t: o a p p W o O N e l ab l i a v a

We offer Apprenticeships in: Customer Service Administration Hospitality

Warehousing Team Leading Retail

t: 0845 071 9011 e: apprenticeships@first4skills.com w: www.first4skills.com

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RETAIL SECTOR

58%

1/3

(percentage of female workers in this sector)

42%

(percentage of male workers in this sector)

number of retail employees under 25 years old

£325 billion (annual turnover of the retail sector)

287,000

There are an amazing 287,000 individual retail outlets in the UK

10%

Retail employs around 10% of the UK’s workforce

Retail manager (experienced) expected yearly earnings -

£21,000 - £28,000

Retail manager (large store) expected yearly earnings -

£40,000+

The retail sector is booming in the UK…get involved! 33

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Retail It’s not just about working on a till – the retail sector offers a range of career paths, from managing a shop to creating shop window displays. Everyone loves to shop, which is why this sector turns over more than £321 billion a year in the UK. Retail is about the sale of products and services to consumers (that’s people like you). It covers high street shops, supermarkets, independent shops, large national chains and more. It’s also one of the most fun and young industries out there, with more than one third of the workforce under 25 years old. Whether your strengths are creativity or organisation, there’s a role for you. Here are the main areas in the sector:

Store operations

One of the most exciting places to work, store operations is about delivering customer service. Sales assistants help customers in the shop and make the overall shopping experience better. To do this it is important to have top knowledge of the products you are selling, as well as being friendly and approachable. Salary: starting between £11,000 and £15,000 a year.

Buying

Buyers are the people who choose what is sold in the shop, and buy the products directly from designers and wholesalers. As well as knowing all about the latest fashions and trends you have to be a keen negotiator. It’s the buyers at Topshop, for example, who bring trends to the high street. Salary: starting between £16,000 and £20,000. With experience, you can earn over £45,000 a year.

Visual merchandising

From window displays to mannequin dressing, this creative career is about making visual displays to catch the customer’s eye. Visual merchandising is vital to the stores overall profitability. Salary: starting between £12,000 and £16,000 a year.

Management

From managing a shop to overseeing a region of national chains, store managers are needed to keep things running smoothly and profitably. To be a successful store manager you have to be able to motivate staff and sales teams but you may also have to deal with human resources, marketing, customer service and finance. Salary: starting between £16,000 and £20,000, while managers of large stores can make £40,000 or more.

North West Focus 11% of the North West’s workforce is employed in retail. There are a lot of opportunities in this sector; available roles range from customer service and sales to managing, these are the most common job roles here. Over two thirds of vacancies in the retail sector here are in customer service and sales.

Fast facts:

• 12% of the UK’s retail employees are in the North West. • 13% of the UK’s retail establishments are also in this region. • Manchester is the largest retail centre in the region.

Start learning!

Want a course in the North West? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what course in your local area, or you could visit www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Careers Insight

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Get qualified There are several courses you can take to help start a career in retail. Once you have work experience these qualifications will help further your career...

Apprenticeships

The Retail Apprenticeship covers a wide range of job roles in retail, from visual merchandising to sales. You’ll get a job with an employer (for example, a national chain like Superdrug) and do half of your learning on the job, and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. Though this the only apprenticeship framework in the sector it can vary hugely based on the employer, the apprenticeship gives you an NVQ level 2: • Retail

Advanced Apprenticeships

A Levels

Case Study Mini Enterprises give hands-on experience Enterprising Beauty Therapy students at South Cheshire College have gained handson experience of retail by setting up a series of mini enterprises. BTEC Level 3 students worked Level 3 Beauty Therapy students delive in teams to create r treatments at South Cheshire Colle ge in a their own small retail venture. retail businesses as a college project and delivered relaxing treatments to staff and students in the College’s impressive campus. The groups competed against each other to try and generate the biggest profit margin and the project gave them an insight into the world of business and retail. South Cheshire College offers specific Business and Retail and Business BTEC courses which are tailored to give students the skills they need for a career in retail.

A Levels can either lead on to university or onto a Foundation Degree, which are explained below. In this industry a lot of your success will be down to your personality rather than academic qualifications; but if you’re interested in retail management or a role as a buyer, here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction:

However, a range of other vocational courses such as Beauty Therapy programmes can also pave the way for a future career in retail.

Foundation Degrees

For more information about Business and Retail programmes, other vocational courses, or Work Related Training Programmes at South Cheshire College, please call 01270 654654 or visit the College website www.s-cheshire.ac.uk

• Business Studies • Economics

You can also do a Foundation Degree in retailing. A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical hands-on experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment. They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from Honours Degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college.

The College also has a dedicated Work Related Training team which aims to bridge the gap between education and the workplace and offers a range of work-related training courses which can help businesses and employees in the retail sector.

Employer Funded Study

Many of the big national chains (like M&S, Tesco and Sainsbury’s) run special training schemes for school leavers – lots of them are linked in with a management option. Entry requirements vary with each scheme – check the websites of shops for more information.

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Are you looking for a career where your personality and creativity is encouraged

you could be the next famous celebrity stylist

Salons are always looking for qualified young people

Apprenticeship, NVQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Tailored Courses, Full & Part time courses, In-salon Training.

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Imagine a Career...

92%

The NHS is Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest employer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with over 1.3 million staff

of job vacancies require IT skills

2.5 million people are employed in manufacturing in the UK

293,000 Around 293,000 people work in agriculture in the UK

The UK retail industry is the 3rd largest in the world

Construction provides employment for 2.35 million people in the UK

678,000

people work in creative industries in the UK Over 1.1 million people are employed in financial services

270,800 There are 270,800 chefs in the UK

1/5 Engineering makes up 1/5 of the UK economy

There are loads of opportunities right on your doorstep, find your perfect career...

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Your career, your choice Wondering what other careers are out there? Here are some of the other sectors in your region... Creative, Digital & Media

Armed Forces

Britain’s armed forces – the Army, Royal Navy, RAF and MoD – all invest a lot in their personnel to give them an education that’s relevant in the civilian world as well as in the services. They all offer Apprenticeships so recruits can earn nationally recognised trade qualifications alongside their regular training. For example, a cook for the Royal Navy could also complete a chef Apprenticeship. Each organisation offers different schemes, so visit their websites for more details. Salary: Starting around £13,400 the first year, with excellent benefits and progression. Qualifications: The armed forces offer Apprenticeships in many areas, including Engineering, Fitting, Maintenance, Cookery, IT, Admin, Marine Engineering and more.

Business & Finance

This sector is about money – saving it, borrowing it, managing it and most of all, making lots more of it. It’s the UK’s most global industry and covers a wide range of services and products that everyone uses like bank accounts, mortgages, pensions, credit cards and insurance. The perk of working with money is that salaries tend to be higher than average. Job roles: Accounts assistant, payroll assistant, admin assistant, bank cashier, trainee accountant. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £20,000. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Business & Admin and Financial Services; A-level Traineeships; Foundation Degrees.

Construction

Its more than just bricks and mortar. The construction industry is worth billions and builds the world around us, from hospitals and houses to bridges and football stadiums. One of the most popular ways into this career is the Construction Apprenticeship Scheme, which takes two years for a Level 2 award, and one more year for the Level 3 qualification. To apply, you’ll need to have found an employer that will sponsor you. Job roles: Bricklayer, labourer, joiner, painter and decorator, plasterer. Salary: Apprentices can expect to earn around £8,700 the first year, £11,600 the next, and £15,350 the third year. Qualifications: Construction Apprenticeships; Foundation Degrees.

This sector covers a range of exciting and creative careers in TV, film, graphics, publishing and journalism. Production assistants help out on television and film sets; graphic designers create adverts and billboards; journalists write news stories; publishers print books and magazines; and photographers shoot and edit images. If you thrive on a creative buzz, there’s no better industry to be in. Competition for jobs is high so work experience is highly recommended. Job roles: Graphic designer, web designer, production assistant, editing assistant, photographer assistant. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £17,000. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Creative and Digital Media; Foundation Degrees from Creative Writing to Animation.

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Engineering

Customer Service & Admin

Any business that wants to be successful has to make its customers happy. From helping a shopper find the right size at Topshop to answering customer queries at a BT call centre, customer service jobs come in all shapes and sizes. Another thing businesses can’t function without is effective admin. Administrators are responsible for running the daily operations of the office. They answer the phone, input data, type up letters and anything else that needs to be done. Since administration and customer service are needed in most organisations, you could work across many different sectors. Job roles: Admin assistant, office junior, personal assistant, customer service representative. Salary: Starting anywhere between £13,000 and £18,000 per year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Customer Service and Business & Admin; Foundation Degree in Customer Service Management.

Energy & Renewables

This essential sector deals with the utilities we rely on: water, electricity and gas. It also covers waste management and alternative sources of power like nuclear energy, wind power and solar energy. Careers in this sector cover the distribution and supply of gas; the generation and transmission of electricity; the collection and purification of water; the treatment of sewage; and nuclear fuel processing. Apprenticeships are a recognised route into this industry and offer excellent career progression.

At the heart of every technological advance is an engineer. Chemical engineers create new fuels to keep vehicles moving; civil engineers design our railways and roads; and aerospace engineers design the most modern aircraft. Engineers use problem solving, creativity and imagination to come up with answers to problems. The main challenge is doing more with less. How can they make something more cheaply, quickly and effectively than ever before? Engineering is one of the most varied sectors out there, with specialist areas like chemical, mechanical, electrical, aerospace, marine and defence. Job roles: Maintenance fitter, welder, mechanical engineering technician. Salary: Starting anywhere between £15,000 and £18,000 per year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Engineering; Foundation Degrees.

Entrepreneurial

An entrepreneur is someone who starts their own business or enterprise, they’re the boss! Entrepreneurs are amongst the most successful people in the world but they have to work hard, be very determined and of course have a money making idea. Businesses created by entrepreneurs are vital to the UK’s economy. Job roles/Salary/Qualifications: All of these things depend on the individual. The beauty of creating your own business is that you don’t need any special qualifications. You might need some help in setting up a business though so head to www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk to see what’s out there to support young entrepreneurs.

Environmental & Land-based

This broad sector offers lots of opportunities to make a difference to the planet, from farming and protecting wildlife to looking after parks and conservation. The main areas within this sector are: Horticulture & landscaping, Agriculture, Animal care, Environmental conservation, and Land-based engineering. Salary: Starting between £12,000 and £18,000. Landscape engineers make between £20,000 and £26,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships from Animal Care to Agriculture; Foundation Degrees.

Food & Drink

Food and drink is one of the largest industries in the UK – in fact, it even helped pull the country out of the recession. This sector is about taking what’s grown by farmers and transforming it into our favourite foods and beverages. It takes a lot of people working together to make this happen, which means loads of career paths on offer. You could be processing ingredients, fixing machines on the production floor, processing meat, baking cakes or testing quality. Job roles: Production operative, bottling operative, baker, warehouse worker. Salary: Starting between £11,000 and £17,000 a year. Qualifications: Food Manufacture Apprenticeships; Foundation Degree in Food & Drink Management.

Job roles: Gas network engineer, gas service technician, wastewater plant worker, process operator, decommissioning operative. Salary: Starting anywhere between £12,000 and £20,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Gas, Nuclear and Utilities; Foundation Degrees, including Power Distribution.

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Public Services

Health & Social Care

If you’ve got a big heart and want to work with people, then a career in Health and Social Care could be for you. This sector is about helping people live healthy, full lives. Health care covers careers in medicine (nurses, physiotherapists, dental nurses, etc) while social care is about supporting people with special needs. Most people in this sector work for the NHS while the rest are employed by private practices. Because healthcare is an essential part of our society, there’ll always be jobs on offer for qualified people. In fact, this is one sector that continues to thrive during recessions. Job roles: Care assistant, nursing assistant, dental nurse, porter. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £16,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships and Foundation degrees in Health and Social Care.

Hair & Beauty

This industry is all about helping people look good and feel better about themselves. It’s a booming sector that makes billions each year. There are many different paths within this sector – hairdressing, nail services, beauty therapy, spa therapy – and all of them require common skills: creativity, the ability to work on your feet for long hours, good handeye co-ordination and up-to-date knowledge of what’s in (and what’s out). Job roles: Hairdresser, spa therapist, beauty therapist, aromatherapist Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £16,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships from Hairdressing to Beauty Therapy; Foundation Degree in Salon Management.

Manufacturing

From the cars on the motorway to the clothes in your wardrobe, many of the things we rely on have been manufactured. This sector is all about making things on a massive scale: cars, TVs, clothes, aeroplanes, fuel… it’s a very important industry. There are many career paths in the sector, from operating machinery that makes plastics or testing the quality of finished engine parts. Job roles: Production and process engineers, technicians, maintenance engineers, welders and machine setters. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £18,000 a year. Qualifications: Manufacturing Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees.

Maritime

Maritime basically involves every industry where business takes place in harbours, at ports or on vessels. Marine engineering is also an area in this sector, which has plenty of job opportunities. This involves designing and constructing both ships and equipment to be used at sea or on the water. This sector remains vital to our economy as the sea remains the best way to bring products and materials into the country. Job roles: Commercial sea fishing, marine leisure, maritime search and rescue, merchant navy, ports and harbours. Salary: Starting salary after completing a marine industry apprenticeship can be anywhere between £12,000 and £17,000. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Maritime Occupations and Marine Industry; Foundation Degrees.

In this sector, your work could help other people and improve your local community. Public services are an essential part of our society – education, housing, the police, and the fire service are all services that the government provides for its citizens (that’s you and us). In this sector, you could help organise a community arts programme, work for a housing association or support a teacher in the classroom. Your local council is a large employer in this sector. Contact them directly for job vacancies. Job roles: Classroom assistant, nursery nurse, admin assistant, youth support worker. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £16,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees in Public Services.

Sport & Fitness

Many people think the only way you can get a career in sport is to become a professional athlete or a PE teacher – but this couldn’t be further from the truth. This sector is about promoting health and fitness. For example, exercise and fitness instructors work for gyms and leisure centres and help people stay fit and healthy. Sports coaches teach skills and techniques at all levels, from beginner to professional. Outdoor activity instructors help people enjoy themselves in the great outdoors and operations managers make sure gyms and leisure centres run smoothly. Job roles: Personal trainer, fitness instructor, swimming coach, leisure centre assistant, playworker. Salary: Starting around £12,000 and can rise to £25,000 with experience and qualifications. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching; Foundation Degree in Playworking.

Start Learning

Want to find a course in one of these sectors? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what in your local area.

41 41

Myfuture

Dail colle y bus s ge from ervices Lanc across ashir e

If you’re leaving school or college this year and aren’t sure of the next step – take a look at the full-time courses, degrees and work based apprenticeships available at Myerscough College. There’s a great choice of subjects, excellent teaching and amazing facilities! Plus superb regional transport links and great on-site accommodation for 750 students. Agriculture - Animal Studies - Arboriculture - Cricket - Ecology and Conservation - Equine Studies - Farriery - Fishing Studies Floral Design - Football Coaching - Garden Design Golf Coaching - Horticulture - Landscape Mechanisation - Motorsports - Photography - Rugby Sports Studies - Sportsturf - Teacher Training Veterinary Nursing - Dedicated Access Courses

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Useful Stuff

Spotlight on THE NORTH WEST 1 0 3 ,0 0 0 % 8 4 Amount of the regions total land area made up by Cumbria

350,000+ companies are based in the North West

320,000 people here are employed in the digital and creative sectors

ÂŁ77 billion per year (the North West economic output)

people are employed in the food and drink industry in the North West Over 65% of people finishing a degree at a North West university find employment in the region

16 million (visitors to Cumbria each year)

7 million Approximate number of people in the North West

...AND SO MUCH MORE! 43

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Your region Take a look at some of the major opportunities in the North West

Cumbria Key colleges: Barrow-in-Furness Sixth Form College, Carlisle College, Furness College, Kendal College, Lakes College. Key university: University of Cumbria. Known for its beautiful Lake District, Cumbria is a hive of tourist activity. This is thanks to the Lake District National Park (the largest in the UK) and the Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Site. A huge 1 in 4 jobs here are in the tourism industry, which brings in around 16 million visitors each year. Other cultural industries are important here too: creative industries, sport and leisure, and heritage together provide over 15% of employment in the whole of Cumbria. Key city: Carlisle Carlisle, Cumbria’s only city provides plenty of jobs in the service sector. Private firms in the service sector, including hotels and restaurants for example, combined with public sector services, account for nearly three quarters of the employment here. Key places: Carlisle, Barrow-in-Furness, Penrith and Kendal. Key employers: Nestle, Center Parcs, Kimberley Clark, The Stobart Group. 14-19 prospectus: www.applycumbria.co.uk

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Cumbria

Cheshire Key colleges: Aquinas College, Macclesfield College, Mid-Cheshire College, Priestley College, Reaseheath College, Riverside College, Sir John Deane’s College, South Cheshire College, Warrington Collegiate, West Cheshire College. Key university: University of Chester. Cheshire is home to a number of large employers in a number of sectors. There are plenty of careers with international leaders in the food and drink industry, particularly packaging; Quinn Glass is a packaging technolo gy leader based in Cheshire. British Salt also call the region home – Cheshir e has been famous for salt production since Roman times! Creative industries are a big employer in the Cheshire and Warrington area. There are almost 1,800 businesses in the sector in the Cheshire East area alone. McCann Erickson is one of the highest ranking advertising agencies in the world, and they have an office in Prestbury. Key city: Chester Chester is a strong financial centre for the country; this sector employs over 12% of Chester’s population. Not surprising when Chester houses Bank of America, HBOS and Marks and Spencer Financial Services. Key employers: Bank of America, HBOS, Marks and Spencer, Airbus UK. 14-19 prospectuses: www.wayahead-cheshireeast.co.uk, www.wayahead-warrington.co.uk

Lancashire

Greater Manchester Merseyside

Cheshire

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Lancashire

Form College, Blackburn College, ale College, Ashton-under-Lyme Sixth send Ros & on ge, ringt Acc s: ege coll Key ley College, Cardinal Newman Colle Blackpool Sixth Form College, Burn shaw Run ge, Colle ton Pres Blackpool and The Flyde College, ge, e Colle Myerscough College, Nelson and Coln Lancaster and Morecombe College, College, St Mary’s College. y. tral Lancashire, Lancaster Universit Key universities: University of Cen 00 turing industry, with an estimated 19,5 s aerospace and advanced manufac es like ness busi nal natio Inter Lancashire is home to a world clas ty. coun the in a quarter of the manufacturing jobs space employees. This contributes nearly outstanding facilities to develop aero re’s ashi Lanc of use e mak ems Syst BAE t in the and rtan ines Eng impo Jet also ce is n Roy Rolls home and the regio Leyland Trucks also call the region n. regio the in ts plan er pow technology. Manufacturing firms like ral ut British Energy operate seve outp gy ener ear nucl of age UK’s the herit a of Energy sector. With ular seaside town, is another omy. Blackpool, the UK’s most pop Tourism is key to Lancashire’s econ s in the leisure and tourism sector. nitie ortu opp the North West, providing in d foun is es that ons inati dest ist big tour aster, Morecambe, Lytham St Ann other tourist destinations such as Lanc more even ns mea h whic ism, Lancashire is also home to several tour investing more money into are be ecam Mor and ol kpo Blac and Fleetwood. Both careers in this sector. opportunities for local businesses and kburn and Blackpool. Key places: Lancaster, Preston, Blac Systems, James Hall & Co. Key employers: Rolls Royce, BAE progress.com/ 14-19 prospectus: http://www.ucas

Merseyside College, Carmel Key colleges: Birkenhead Sixth Form George V College, College, Hugh Baird College, King rpool Community Live Knowsley Community College, ns College, Wirral Hele St ge, College, Southport Colle Metropolitan College. y, Liverpool Hope Key universities: Edge Hill Universit ersity University Univ res University, Liverpool John Moo of Liverpool. ction – Merseyside, particularly its main attra a number of for re cent Liverpool – is a rapidly growing or has sect onal essi prof and industries. The financial rly icula part n, regio this in th grow of lot undergone a rsk. Mae and st after investment by JP Morgan Inve st sub sector in Financial services make up the large ing £4.3 billion bring omy econ ge’ Liverpool’s ‘knowled each year to the region. seyside are Nearly one in three workers in Mer cation and edu n, ratio employed in public administ loyed by the emp are ple peo 00 health, and over 60,0 huge mix of a is e ther all in all ide; seys councils of Mer career opportunities. Key city: Liverpool for computer Liverpool is also a popular location Sony Computer game designers and manufacturers; creative studio in pean Euro Entertainment has its main job opportunities ting exci of ty plen Liverpool, providing in the creative industry. , Bridgewater Key employers: Sony, Nichols PLC C. HMR , lays Paper Co Ltd, Barc progress.com/ 14-19 prospectus: http://www.ucas

Greater Manchester Key colleges: Bolton College, Bolt on Sixth Form College, Bury College, Cheadle and Marple Sixth Form College, Holy Cross College, Hopwood Hall College, Loreto College, Manchester College, Oldham Colle ge, Oldham Sixth Form College, Rochdale Sixth Form Colle ge, Salford City College, St John Rigby College, Stockport Colle ge, Tameside College, Trafford College, Wigan and Leigh College, Winstanley College, Xaverian Colle ge. Key universities: University of Bolt on, The University of Manchester, Manchester Metropo litan University, The University of Salford. Greater Manchester makes up arou nd 40% of the regions overall economy so there are opportu nities in most sectors. The creative sector is big here. As well as having a reputation for musical exports like Oasis an entir e ‘Media City’ has been developed in Salford Quays. This crea tive industry hub is now home to the BBC, which has moved 5 departments here from London, as well as northern classics like Coronation Street. As with many big cities retail and cust omer service are big employers here. The Trafford Centre, providing 8000 retail sector jobs in one building alone! Man chester city centre also provides the UK’s largest city centre shopping mall. Manchester’s biomedical commun ity is also thriving for both manufacturing and clinical rese arch companies. It’s also the biggest commercial finance cent re outside of London; it houses massive financial institutions such as Bank of New York Mellon and Handelsbanken. Key employers: PriceWaterhouse Coopers, Kelloggs, Arcadia Group, BBC, ITV Granada, Adidas. 14-19 prospectus: http://gm.portal.s -cool.co.uk/

Improving Learning and Employability Supporting a young person We CAN reduce the numbers of back into education through young people not in Education, one of our programmes could Employment or Training (NEET).

SAVE Local Authorities ÂŁ15,000 per young person, per annum

Improve grades OUR programmes HELP young people to achieve success. Evaluation of our work proves that we can:

Increase merits Reduce demerits Improve attendance

If you are a young person eager to succeed ask your Teacher or Careers Advisor to Get in Touch with us... Brathay Trust, Brathay Hall, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0HP t: 0844 225 3100 www.brathay.org.uk

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In The North West 75% of the top 100 companies in the country have bases in the North West, which means there are plenty of opportunities in England’s third most populated region ... SIZE OF THE NORTH WEST WORKFORCE IN EACH INDUSTRY (TOTAL 3,287,100)

Size of the NORTH WEST Workforce in Each Industry Agriculture, forestry and fishing Mining and quarrying Manufacturing Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning

Water supply; sewerage, waste management Construction Wholesale and retail trade; repair of vehicles Transportation and storage Accommodation and food service activities Information and communication Financial and insurance activities Real estate activities Professional, scientific and technical activities Administrative and support service activities Public administration and defence Education Human health and social work activities Arts, entertainment and recreation Other service activities 0

Average Pay in the North West Full-time workers £460.30 (Weekly) £11.74 (Hourly)

Male

full-time workers £498.50 (Weekly) £12.16 (Hourly)

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NORTH WEST Workforce Qualifications NW NVQ level 4 + - 28.7% NVQ level 3 - 16.7% Trade Apprenticeships - 4.2% NVQ level 2 - 17.2% NVQ level 1 - 13.9% Other Qualifications - 7.3% No Qualifications - 12.1%

Female

full-time workers £417.00 (Weekly) £11.15 (Hourly)

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Apprenticeships within Serco Apprenticeships within Serco are key as we recruit the new talent we need to continue delivering high quality services. Apprenticeships are available in numerous diverse sectors within Serco as we continue to grow the scale and breath of the programme. We do all we can to make sure apprentices get maximum learning from the job and are supported through their studies and into employment. Serco improves the quality and efficiency of essential services that matter to millions of people around the world. The work we do for national and local governments involves us in the most important areas of public service, including health, education, transport, science and defence. Our private sector customers are industryleading organisations in a wide variety of markets. We have nearly 50 years’ experience of helping our customers achieve their goals. Many want us to improve their productivity and service quality. Others need us to support their rapid growth. Government customers face crucial issues such as economic development, congestion, security and climate change. They value the innovation and passion we bring to these challenges, and the collaborative, flexible and imaginative way we work. Serco is a values-led company with a culture and ethos that is at the heart of everything we do. We give our people real

Aeronautical Apprentices, RNAS Yeovilton

responsibility, allowing them to put their ideas into practice and to truly make a difference for our customers and the public. Our people strategy is at the heart of our approach, it’s designed to ensure we continue to have the people and expertise we need to face today’s challenges and those ahead of us. It recognises that a good business depends on good people. This drives our commitment to support our national Apprenticeship programme which has enabled us to recruit some exciting new talent into the business. Our approach has made us one of the world’s leading service companies and our vision is to be the world’s greatest. Our service ethos means that our customers come back to us again and again. These long-term relationships help us to meet their changing needs and to do what we do best... ..bringing service to life.

At Serco we find that apprentices are motivated, flexible and loyal. They bring increased productivity, improved competitiveness and a committed, competent workforce.

Motor Vehicle Apprentice, RAF Cranwell

Current Apprenticeship Programmes within Serco Aeronautical – Avionic

Customer Service

General Engineering Craftsmen

Mechanical Building Maintenance

Aeronautical – Ground Radio

Digital Satellite Communications

Ground Support Equipment Technician

Motor Vehicle Maintenance

Aeronautical – Mechanical

Electro-Technical

Quality Assurance -Health and Safety

Plumbing

Bike Mechanic – Barclays Cycle Hire London

Electro-Mechanical

Health and Social Care

Project Engineering

Boilermaker

Electronic Systems Engineering

Horticulture

Project Management

Building Services

Electrical Systems Engineering

IT Support Technician

Shipwright

Business Administration

Engineering Maintenance

Leisure and Tourism

Support Services

Childcare

Facilities Management

Life Guard

Aircraft Survival Equipment

Contact Centre Operations

Finance

Management

Team Leading

Custodial Care

Fitness Instruction

Marine Seamen – Deckhand

Warehouse Management

apprenticeshipvacancymatchingservice.lsc.gov.uk

Lesley Watson, UK Apprenticeship Manager, Serco

•

Chair Apprenticeship Ambassador Network SouthWest of England, National Apprenticeship Service

To apply for a Serco Apprenticeship log-on to the Apprenticeship Vacancies Website

Apprenticeships@serco.com

Lee Carrick looks forward to the future with a Serco Apprenticeship Lee Catterick, turned his life around when he was given the opportunity to train as a horticulture Apprentice. Lee is just one of the young people to take up the Apprenticeships offered by our grounds maintenance team at the London Borough of Newham, in association with agricultural college Capel Manor. Leaving school at 13, Lee got in with a ‘bad crowd’ and spent a year in prison. Now, he enjoys his work and looks forward to the future: “The best bit of my Apprenticeship? Getting up and going to work – doing something that gives me a feeling of self-worth. As an Apprentice I’m learning a skilled trade, a recognised trade, and I’m earning while I’m learning. All in one. The bonus is there’s a qualification.” The Senior Supervisor and Lee’s mentor John, says: “Lee is enthusiastic about whatever we ask him to do. I think he will be a credit to himself and the Apprenticeship scheme.” The horticultural industry as a whole desperately needs skills to be passed down to the next generation. “A lot of people are already coming up to retirement age and we will lose their skills,” explains John. “Through apprentices those skills are passed on and shared. Our apprentices are full-time, they’re part of the team and do a vast range of jobs.”

Our UK and Ireland Apprenticeship Footprint 2012

Throughout Serco, we appreciate the potential of young people and place great significance on providing them with the opportunities to develop the skills and experience necessary to enter work. We are delighted to be offering these opportunities, which are exciting for the people involved and the company, as we look to recruit the new talent we need to continue delivering high quality services for all our customers.

Christopher Hyman Chief Executive, Serco Group

Apprentice Varty Completes the Apprenticeship in Customer Services As part of our commitment to employee development the Apprenticeship in Customer Service is offered to all employees enrolled in The Listening Academy which is an adviser development programme offered to contact centre staff in Serco. Matthew Varty was one of the first employees at our site in Newcastle to complete his Apprenticeship in Customer Service.

Apprentice Team Building 2011: International Fire Training Center

This is what Matthew and his Team Manager had to say: Matthew said, “I was really keen to progress so I often came in early or stayed late after shifts to work with the assessors – who were really helpful. They helped me through my Numeracy and Literacy assessments as well as the Key skills and communication workbooks. I’m really pleased to have been the first person on the Newcastle site to have passed this. I feel I have achieved a lot and I’m really looking forward to getting my certificate.” Matthew’s Team Manager Scott High said, “I’m really proud that Matthew is the first person on site to complete his Apprenticeship. He’s been really enthusiastic throughout the process and has consistently displayed great customer service skills – something which is starting to rub off on his colleagues. Well done Matthew!”

www.serco.com

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useful links directory

imer: As councils are 14-19 prospectus discla vide 14-19 prospectus no longer obliged to pro links may be out of date. websites, some of these contact us if you spot any Please do not hesitate to g this list each issue. errors as we will be updatin

Online 14-19 Prospectuses Blackburn & Darwen www.steps4me.co.uk

Trafford www.trafford14-19.co.uk

Blackpool www.steps4me.co.uk

Warrington www.wayahead-warrington.co.uk

Bolton bolton.portal.s-cool.co.uk

Wigan wigan.portal.s-cool.co.uk

Bury bury.portal.s-cool.co.uk

Wirral www.i-choosewirral.org.uk CAP Home. aspx

Cheshire East www.wayaheadcheshirewestandchester.co.uk

Bury College www.burycollege.ac.uk 0161 280 8280 Cardinal Newman College www.cardinalnewman.org.uk 01772 460181 Holy Cross College www.holycross.ac.uk 0161 762 4500

Cheshire West and Chester www.wayaheadcheshirewestandchester.co.uk

Local Councils mycouncil.direct.gov.uk/

Myerscough College www.myerscough.ac.uk 01995 642211

Cumbria www.applycumbria.co.uk

Colleges

Nelson and Colne College www.nelson.ac.uk 01282 440200

Knowsley www.i-chooseknowsley.org.uk Manchester gm.portal.s-cool.co.uk Oldham prospectus.yourchoice14plus.co.uk Rochdale rochdale.portal.s-cool.co.uk Salford salford.portal.s-cool.co.uk Sefton www.i-choosesefton.org.uk St. Helens secure.apply-sthelens.com Stockport stockport.futures4me.co.uk Tameside www.yourchoiceintameside.co.uk

Local Councils

Burnley College www.burnley.ac.uk 01282 733373

LANCASHIRE

Accrington and Rossendale College Preston College www.preston.ac.uk www.accross.ac.uk 01772 22 55 22 01254 389933 Blackburn College www.blackburn.ac.uk 01254 55144

Runshaw College www.runshaw.ac.uk 01772 622677

Blackpool and Fylde College www.blackpool.ac.uk 01253 504343

Skelmersdale and Ormskirk Colleges www.skelmersdale.ac.uk 01695 52300

Blackpool Sixth Form College www.blackpoolsixth.ac.uk 01253 394911

St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College www.stmarysblackburn.ac.uk 01254 580464

Bolton College www.boltoncollege.ac.uk 01204 482000

CUMBRIA

Bolton Sixth Form College www.bolton-sfc.ac.uk 0800 052 1460

Askham Bryan www.newtonrigg.ac.uk 01768 893696 Barrow in Furness Sixth Form College www.barrow6fc.ac.uk 01229 828377

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Carlisle College www.carlisle.ac.uk 01228 822 700

The Manchester College www.themanchestercollege.ac.uk 0800 068 8585

Furness College www.furness.ac.uk 01229 825017

Trafford College www.trafford.ac.uk 0161 886 7000

Kendal College www.kendal.ac.uk 01539 814700

Wigan and Leigh College www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk 01942 76 16 00

Lakes College West Cumbria www.lcwc.ac.uk 01946 839302

Winstanley College www.winstanley.ac.uk 01695 633244

Lancaster and Morecambe College www.lmc.ac.uk 0800 306 306

Xaverian College www.xaverian.ac.uk 0161 224 1781

CHESHIRE Aquinas College www.aquinas.ac.uk 0161 483 3237 Cheadle & Marple Sixth Form College www.camsfc.ac.uk 0161 486 4600 Mid Cheshire College www.midchesh.ac.uk 01606 74444 Priestley College www.priestleycollege.ac.uk 01925 633591

GREATER MANCHESTER

MERSEYSIDE

Reaseheath College www.reaseheath.ac.uk 01270 625131

Ashton Under Lyne Sixth Form College www.asfc.ac.uk 0161 330 2330

Birkenhead Sixth Form College www.bsfc.ac.uk 0151 652 5575

Riverside College www.riversidecollege.ac.uk 0151 257 2800

Carmel College www.carmel.ac.uk 01744 452200

Sir John Deaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College www.sjd.ac.uk 01606 810020

Hugh Baird College www.hughbaird.ac.uk 0151 353 4444

South Cheshire College www.s-cheshire.ac.uk 01270 654654

King George V College www.kgv.ac.uk 01704 530601

Stockport College www.stockport.ac.uk 0161 958 3100

Knowsley Community College www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk 0845 155 1055

Warrington Collegiate Institute www.warrington.ac.uk 01925 494 494

Liverpool Community College www.liv-coll.ac.uk 0151 252 3000

West Cheshire College www.west-cheshire.ac.uk 01244 670600

Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts www.lipa.ac.uk 0151 330 3000

Other Useful Sites

The Cooperative College www.co-op.ac.uk 0161 246 2926 Hopwood College www.hopwood.ac.uk 0161 643 7560 Loreto Sixth Form College www.loreto.ac.uk 0161 226 5156 Macclesfield College www.macclesfield.ac.uk 01625 410002 Manchester Business School www.mbs.ac.uk 0161 275 6333 Royal Northern College of Music www.rncm.ac.uk 0161 907 5200 Oldham College www.oldham.ac.uk 0800 269 480 Oldham Sixth Form College www.osfc.ac.uk 0161 287 8000 Salford College www.salford-col.ac.uk 0161 631 5000 Tameside College www.tamesidecollege.ac.uk 0161 908 6789

Southport College www.southport-college.ac.uk 01704 500606 St. Helens College www.sthelens.ac.uk 01744 733766 St. John Rigby Sixth Form College www.sjr.ac.uk 01942 214797 Wirral Metropolitan College www.wmc.ac.uk 0151 551 7777

Careers Box www.careersbox.co.uk Jobcentre Plus www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk National Apprenticeship Service www.apprenticeships.org.uk Skill www.skill.org.uk UCAS Progress www.ucasprogress.com

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